Marilyn Ann (Whichard) Cashwell

Marilyn Ann Whichard Cashwell, 85, of Hope Mills, NC, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025.

Born on June 11, 1940, in Bladen County, NC, Marilyn was the daughter of David and Annie Whichard, hardworking farmers in Tobermory. As a child, she helped on the family farm and cared for her brothers, Larry, Benny, and Wayne. Marilyn graduated from Tarheel High School in 1958.

She married in 1959 and welcomed her daughter, Sheila Cashwell Strickland. In 1972, she married Hudson Cashwell, with whom she had two children, Terry Cashwell and Jill Cashwell Newlan. Marilyn also lovingly embraced Hudson’s five children as her own: Cinda Ginevich, Barry Cashwell, Jerry Cashwell, Henry Cashwell, and Nancy Dees.

Marilyn had a diverse career, working in bookkeeping, construction, and sales, including roles with Avon, Dupont, Sullivan Wholesale, Gore Realtors, Just Floors, and Southern Carpet & Interiors. She was deeply involved in her community through the Gray’s Creek Women’s Club, Ruritan Club, Christian Center, and the Face 2 Faith Homeless Ministry.

Her faith was central to her life. Marilyn was a proud member of Bladen Union Baptist, Cape Fear Baptist, and most recently, Southview Baptist Church. She was especially passionate about her mission work in Ukraine.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Hudson; her brothers; son-in-law Jimmy Dees; and granddaughter Amanda Graham Barker.

Marilyn is survived by her children: Sheila Strickland of Hope Mills; Terry A. Cashwell of Hope Mills; Jill (Ron) Newlan of Hope Mills; Cinda (Rost) Ginevich of Colleyville, TX; Barry (Darlene) Cashwell of Hope Mills; Jerry (Renee) Cashwell of Hope Mills; Henry (Sophia) Cashwell of Dahlonega, GA; and Nancy Dees of Fayetteville. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Marilyn will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to her Christian faith, and her generous spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be sent to Southview Baptist Church – Face 2 Faith Homeless Ministry Fund.

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